Exercise Pool with Circulating Flow

ABSTRACT

A Exercise Pool is disclosed herein having a rigid frame modular in design to allow for improved delivery and assembling. As shown the system may be configured with a box like structure providing containment of the flow head and may be configured with a removable walk deck having an air gap built in. As disclosed the treadmill swimming pool system as its general configuration is safer for users as it inhibits and/or eliminates hair and body entrapment. As disclosed it has a balanced flow which better replicates or reproduces actual swimming conditions for an enhanced user experience. The propulsion system may be controlled with a variable frequency drive (VFD) to allow for improved swimming conditions and control of same.

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

Applicant requests entry into the National Phase in the United States asallowed by 35 USC 371 by and through the application which is based onPCT Patent Application, assigned serial number PCT/US2017/048972, filedon Aug. 28, 2017, which claimed priority under 35 U.S.C. § 119(e) ofprovisional U.S. Pat. Application Ser. No. 62,380,124 filed on Aug. 26,2016, which is incorporated by reference herein in its entirety.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

Swimming pools and more particularly, self-contained exercise swimmingpools that can generate currents of various speeds for exercise, therapyand rehabilitation. The present invention relates to an improvedexercise pool which may be deployed through a novel structure within anypool structure including as a stand-alone flow head, a drop-in unitpropulsion unit which may be positioned in the end of an existingswimming pool to produce a circulating flow, with or without waterreturns, or built as stand-alone self-contained exercise pool containinga circulating water stream or flow.

BACKGROUND OF PRIOR ART

Continuous swimming tanks are known generally. German Patent No.2,222,594 issued to Hoppe shows a continuous swimming tank. In the tankdescribed therein, water circulates from the front of a swimming areapast the swimmer to the rear of the swimming area where it isrecirculated through a duct which runs beneath the floor of the swimmingarea. One set of turning vanes directs the water from the swimming areato the recirculation duct. The water passes over a propeller located inthe duct and used for circulation. The second set of turning vanesdirects the water from the recirculation duct back into the front of theswimming area.

The swimming area shown in the German '594 patent widens from the frontof the tank to the rear of the tank. That is, the cross-sectional areaof the swimming area increases from the front to the rear of the tank.This results in velocity variations over the length of the tank. Thevelocity of the flowing water is greater at the front of the swimmingarea than it is at the rear of the swimming area. Thus, a swimmer maychoose where to swim, according to water velocity. The flow rate ofwater is constant anywhere in a given cross-section, perpendicular tothe direction of water flow. The preceding prior art is incorporated byreference herein.

The problem with such a design is that it requires a large swimming areaand thus a large swimming tank. Further, a large motor and great deal ofpower is required to circulate such a large volume of water.

U.S. Pat. No. 2,035,835 issued to Raber for “Swimming Bath” shows acontinuous swimming tank. In this reference, water is circulated eitherbeneath the floor of the swimming area or around the sides of theswimming area. No turning vanes are used to direct the water. Theproblem with such a tank is that large amounts of turbulence aredeveloped, and loss of water velocity results. Therefore, more power isneeded to circulate the water, and swimming comfort is adverselyaffected by the turbulence. The preceding prior art is incorporated byreference herein.

U.S. Pat. No. 5,044,021 issued to James Murdock for a “Continuousswimming apparatus” discloses and claims a swim treadmill which is saidto avoid the power and size shortcomings of the prior art by providing acompact swimming apparatus. The apparatus consists essentially of a tankadapted to contain water and having a swimming area within the tank.Water flows through the swimming area from a water entrance end to awater exit end and returns to the water entrance end via a return pathpositioned adjacent the swim area. Water circulation means is includedin the return path for propelling the water through the return path andthrough the swimming area. A plurality of vanes are located in thereturn path to direct the water from the return path to the entrance endof the swimming area and from the exit end of the swimming area to thereturn path. The vanes help to minimize power losses by minimizing waterturbulence. The vanes are spaced in such a way as to create a horizontalvelocity gradient across the swimming area whereby water closer to thecenter of the swimming area has a higher velocity than water near thesides of the swimming area. The preceding prior art is incorporated byreference herein.

UK Patent GB 2,296,861, issued to Spaform Limited, Jul. 8, 1998, teachesarranging circulating passages to communicate with the delivery passagesexternally of the tank portion, and by mounting the (single) propellermeans in the delivery passage, the propeller means can be mountedexternally of the tank portion to facilitate servicing. Water iscirculated in the tank portion so that a swimmer can swim against thefirst flow generated by water being propelled into the tank portionthrough the delivery passage by the (single) propeller means. Water iscirculated back in the tank portion on either side of the main firstflow and in counterflow thereto. Thus space is not wasted by arrangingducting externally of the tank portion for returning water from one endor side of the tank portion. The water in the tank portion is preferablyintended to be circulated at or just below the water surface in agenerally horizontal plane. As shown, the bottom of the exercise poolhas a sloped bottom to further facilitate return of the circulatingwater flow. The preceding prior art is incorporated by reference herein.

U.S. Pat. Nos. 9,038,208 and 9,428,928 as well as published U.S. Pat.Appl. No. 20160237708 (hereinafter “Ferriss et al.”) also teach anddisclose a single propeller or propeller means within a swimming pool toproduce a circulating water flow, in which a single plenum arrangementis used to create circuitous water flow paths within the swimmingcompartment of the swimming pool. As disclosed the method of operating aswimming pool with a circulating water flow includes the steps ofdischarging a jet of water and splitting the flow of water. Thedischarging step including the discharging of a jet of water from anoutlet at a head end of the swimming pool into a swimming compartment,whereby the jet of water flows in a primary flow path toward a foot endof the swimming compartment. The splitting step including the splittingof the flow of water to define two circuitous flow paths, each said flowpath having a return flow path flowing within said swimming compartmentin a direction generally opposite to said primary flow path back towardsaid head end. The foot end of Ferriss as shown in FIG. 1 is seating fora spa or hot tub, inherently providing curved surfaces which appear toassist with current flow diversion and re-direction back to the headend. The preceding prior art is incorporated by reference herein.

Published U.S. Patent application 20170204628 entitled “Swim Spa”listing Livingston, Jr. as an inventor teaches a forward current createdby pumping equipment which directs the forward current from the head endof the tank, past a swimmer in the water to a foot end of the tank,allowing the swimmer to swim in place. A diverter having a curvedsurface is positioned at the foot end of the tank for redirecting theforward current toward the sidewalls and then back to the head end forrecirculation. As taught by Livingston, the diverter may only applycurved surfaces for turning the forward current. Additional prior art ofinterest include U.S. Pat. No. 1,731,554 issued to M. I. Wheeler for“Swimming Pool” and U.S. Pat. No. 722,232 issued to Hoeglauer for“Bathtub”. The preceding prior art is incorporated by reference herein.

SUMMARY OF THE DISCLOSURE FIGS. 1-16

Referring now to the drawings, FIG. 1 is a simplified perspective viewof the major components comprising the self-contained exercise pooldisclosed and claimed herein. As shown, the pool is comprised of anexternally positioned power system used to drive a hydraulic systemwhich is connected by hydraulic hoses to and drives a water propulsionsystem. See FIG. 1. The quality of the water used is maintained by thewater quality system which continually processes a slipstream of thewater contained within the self-contained swimming pool. See FIG. 1.

The propulsion system is mounted at a first end of the self-containedswimming pool for containment of water and generation of water currentflows. The water current flows delivered from the first end to thesecond end of the pool for exercise, therapy and or rehabilitation of auser. During operation, the user typically faces the propulsion unit.The self-contained exercise pool is sized so that during operation auser may swim or exercise against the current generated by thepropulsion system. The inner water containment area is created by arigid frame around the outer perimeter therein. A set of water returnchannels within intake ports at the second end of the pool allow thereturn of the water current flows back to the propulsion system. Tomaximize user functionality, a seating surface has been placed upon thewater return channels to allow for user seating on either side of thewater current flows.

As illustrated in FIGS. 1, 4 and 7, the self-contained exercise pooldisclosed and claimed herein may be adapted for various types and sizesof top decorative surfaces including an eight (8″) inch walk-way asshown at FIGS. 2-4 and a two-foot (2′) walkway as shown at FIGS. 7-9. Asrequired by local regulations, the self-contained exercise pool asdescribed herein may be adapted for grounding through installation ofgrounding straps along the bottom portion of the tension straps.

FIGS. 4-6 illustrate the steel supports of the self-contained exercisepool disclosed and claimed herein. FIG. 10 illustrates the tensionstraps of the self-contained exercise pool disclosed and claimed herein.The combination of the modular steel supports shown at FIG. 4 or FIG. 9and the tension straps of FIG. 10 produce an interlocking framestructure of sufficient rigidity during operation that tile may be usedas the top decorative surface. (See FIG. 11) The choice of tile for thetop decorative surface improves the overall aesthetic of theself-contained exercise pool increasing user desirability.

The hydraulic pumping system is exteriorly mounted and alsoself-contained. The hydraulic pumping system has an electrically drivenpump to circulate the glycol based pumping solution through hydraulichoses connected to the propulsion system. The glycol solution chosen isnon-toxic to humans and animals. Although the system as designed tominimize the potential for glycol to enter the water of the pool,however, if the glycol material does enter the water within the innercontainment area, it is easily separated from the water through thefiltration system of the pool. See FIG. 1. Because electrical pumpingsystems as well as hydraulic systems are well known in the art, furtherdiscussion is unnecessary as related to the present art.

It is well known in the prior art to use vegetable oil as the hydraulicfluid to drive the propulsion system. The problem with using vegetableoil as the hydraulic fluid is that if it introduced into the pool at anytime, such as through leakage or spillage, the vegetable oil isimmiscible with the water forming a separate layer. The vegetable oilforms a coating or film upon the inner layer of the pool. Furthermore,the filtration system of the prior art is not equipped to remove thevegetable oil from the water. Typically, the operator must remove thecontents of the pool and thoroughly wash the unit which requires almostcomplete disassembly of the pool unit and its component parts so theymay be washed down with soap and water prior to re-assembly.

The glycol based pumping solution of the present embodiment is designedfor low maintenance and long use. Typically, viscosity breakdown of theglycol solution is of major concern to the prior art. The present systemaddresses this problem by maintaining a relatively constant temperatureof the pumping solution by using a heat exchanger positioned in theinner water circulation area to allow transfer of any excess heat builtup in the pumping solution to be transferred to the circulated water.(Not shown) This innovation solves the viscosity breakdown problem. Theglycol solution, should it be mixed into the water, through leakage orspillage, is easily removed the existing filtration system. Minorhydraulic fluid leaks of the glycol water solution are hardly noticed bythe user. Major glycol leaks into the water of the pool typicallypresent a cloudy appearance which is easily corrected by draining thepool, fixing the leak and refilling the pool with water. No disassemblyof the pool or its major components is necessary.

It is therefore an objective of the present disclosure to create aself-enclosed swimming pool with a circulating water flow for use as awater treadmill for use in exercise or rehabilitation.

It is another objective of the present disclosure for the self-enclosedswimming pool to be self-supporting.

It is another objective of the present disclosure for the rigid frame ofthe self-enclosed swimming pool to be modular in design to allow forimproved delivery and assembling.

It is also an objective of the present disclosure for the self-enclosedswimming pool to drive the propulsion system with a hydraulic systemwith a solution which is non-toxic to both humans and pets.

It is another objective of the present disclosure to provide a treadmillswimming pool system configured to allow for a removable walk deck.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGS. 1-16

FIG. 1 is a simplified perspective view of the major componentscomprising the self-contained exercise pool disclosed and claimedherein.

FIG. 2 is a first embodiment of the self-contained exercise pooldisclosed and claimed herein adapted for an eight (8″) inch walk-way.

FIG. 3 is a deconstructed view of the embodiment of the self-containedexercise pool shown in FIG. 2 having an eight (8″) inch walk-way.

FIG. 4 is a deck and wall support for an eight (8″) inch walk-way asshown in FIGS. 2-3.

FIG. 5 illustrates the upper area of attachment of adjacent deck andwall supports as shown in FIG. 4.

FIG. 6 illustrates the lower area of attachment of adjacent deck andwall supports as shown in FIG. 4.

FIG. 7 is another embodiment of the self-contained exercise pooldisclosed and claimed herein adapted for a twenty-four (24″) inchwalk-way.

FIG. 8 is a deconstructed view of the embodiment of the self-containedexercise pool shown in FIG. 7 having a twenty-four (24″) walk-way.

FIG. 9 illustrates a deck and wall support for a twenty-four (24″)walk-way as shown in FIGS. 7-8.

FIG. 10 illustrates a tension strap wall mount.

FIG. 11 illustrates a tension strap wall mount attached to the lowerportion of a deck and wall support.

FIG. 12 illustrates the wall seam connecting plate fastened betweenadjacent deck and wall supports.

FIG. 13 illustrates a corner liner plate.

FIG. 14 illustrates the water return channels for one embodiment asshown in FIGS. 1-13.

FIG. 15 illustrates the suction section of the water return channelsshown in FIG. 14.

FIG. 16 illustrates an exploded view of the water return channels forone embodiment as shown in FIGS. 1-15.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION LISTING OF ELEMENTS FIGS. 1-16

ELEMENT DESCRIPTION ELEMENT # Rigid Frame 1 Inner Water Containment Area2 Water Return Channel 3 Propulsion System 4 Hydraulic System 5Hydraulic Fluid 6 Coping 7 Decorative Horizontal Surface 8 ModularInterlocking Panels 9 Tension Straps 10 PVC Piping 11 IntentionallyBlank 12 Mounting Strap 13 Housing 14 Intentionally Blank 15 PowerSystem 16 Wall Support Covers 17 Hydraulic Line(s) 18 Propulsion SystemHousing 19 Self-contained Swimming Pool 20 Water Quality System 21 Drain22 Underwater Benches 23 Horizontal Wall Supports 24 Current 25 PoolPanels (walls) 27 Pool Panel (interior side) 28 Pool Panel (exteriorside) 29 Plain Walkway (8″) 30 Walkway (2′) 31 90 Degree Corner Supports32 Top Corner Piece 33 Adjustable Screw Plate 34 Wall Seam ConnectingPlate 35 Wall & Deck Support 36 Suction Tunnel 37 Seam Joint 38 CornerTunnel 39 Water Return Inlet 40 Water Return Screen 41 Top Seat PieStiffener 42 Locking Slot 43 Bottom Wall Plate 44 1^(st) Side 45 2^(nd)Side 46 3^(rd) Side 47 4^(th) Side 48 Water Line 49 Fastener 50

SUMMARY OF THE DISCLOSURE FIGS. 17-29

As shown, the pool is comprised of an externally positioned power systemused to drive a hydraulic system which is connected by hydraulic hosesto and drives a water propulsion system. The quality of the water usedis maintained by the water quality system which continually processes aslipstream of the water contained within the self-contained swimmingpool.

In one embodiment of modular wall structure shown in FIGS. 1-16 whichmay be implemented with the drop-in self-contained propulsion unitdisclosed and discussed herein as illustrated throughout without a setof drop-in flow (water return) tunnels, without restriction orlimitation.

The exercise pool is configured to discharge circulating water flow fromthe self-contained drop-in propulsion unit wherein the circulating waterflow forms a pair of circuitous water flow paths in the exercise pool, afirst water flow path flowing from the head end to the foot end of theexercise pool, the first water flow path useful for swimming, and asecond water flow path from the foot end to the head end of the exercisepool for recirculation.

The exercise pool with a circulating water flow as shown and discussedherein is similar to the pool shown in FIGS. 1-16, in that it is alsoconfigured to have a first sidewall, a second sidewall, a third sidewalland a fourth sidewall, each sidewall generally non-curved and formingfour corners. The corners forming a head end and foot end of theexercise pool.

As shown and discussed herein the exercise pool floor is positionedbelow, enclosed by and connected to the bottom of the sidewalls and theexercise pool floor is generally non-sloped. As disclosed and discussed,the pool floor may be constructed from multiple layers.

As shown herein a self-contained drop-in propulsion may be positioned onthe exercise pool floor between the first and second corners of theexercise pool, the head end for circulating water discharge. In oneembodiment the self-contained drop-in propulsion unit may be configuredwith a plenum arrangement including a common outlet and a plurality ofwater inlets in relation to the air gap and water level duringoperation.

As described and disclosed pair of propellers sitting in the horizontalplane work together to generate a vertical water flow for delivery intoa set of curved vanes which act upon the water flow for a horizontaldischarge. The horizontal water flows transmitted from the plenumarrangement of the self-contained drop-in propulsion unit into the swimarea of the exercise pool. The propellers are left hand and right handand timed to work together, rotating towards each other, to generate asymmetric flow for an enhanced user experience and return flow withoutreturn channels along the sides of the pool sidewalls or flow diversiondevices located at the foot end of the exercise pool via a common outletand a plurality of inlets, located exclusively at head end. In oneembodiment the self-contained propulsion unit and plenum arrangement areconfigured with an one air slot(s) positioned above both the commonoutlet and the plurality of water inlets to limit the height (level) ofthe circulating water present in the interior of the self-containeddrop-in propulsion unit and maintain an air gap above the circulatingwater flow for improved performance of the propulsion system.

In at least one embodiment of the Exercise Pool in it may be configuredto fit in any location because of its modular nature allowing for easeof transport and construction onsite.

In at least one embodiment of the Exercise Pool it may provide atreadmill swimming pool system which is safer for users by inhibitingand/or eliminating hair and body entrapment.

In at least one embodiment of the Exercise Pool it may provide atreadmill swimming pool system having a balanced flow which betterreplicates or reproduces actual swimming conditions for an enhanced userexperience.

In at least one embodiment of the Exercise Pool it may incorporate apropulsion system which is controlled with a variable frequency drive(VFD) to allow for improved swimming conditions and control of same.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION LISTING OF ELEMENTS FIGS. 17-79

ELEMENT DESCRIPTION ELEMENT # Rigid frame  1 Inner water containmentarea  2 Water return channel  3 Propulsion system  4 Hydraulic system  5Hydraulic fluid  6 Current  7 Decorative horizontal surface  8 Modularinterlocking panels  9 Tension straps 10 PVC piping 11 IntentionallyBlank 12 Mounting strap 13 Housing 14 Intentionally Blank 15 Powersystem 16 Wall support covers 17 Hydraulic line(s) 18 Propulsion Systemhousing 19 Self-contained swimming pool 20 Water quality system 21 Drain22 Underwater benches 23 Horizontal wall supports 24 Current 25 Poolpanels (walls) 27 Pool panel (interior side) 28 Pool panel (exteriorside) 29 Plain walkway (8″) 30 walkway (2′) 31 90 degree corner supports32 Top corner piece 33 Adjustable screw plate 34 Wall seam connectingplate 35 Wall & deck support 36 Suction tunnel 37 Seam joint 38 Cornertunnel 39 Water return inlet 40 Water return screen 41 Top seat piestiffener 42 Locking slot 43 Bottom wall plate 44 1^(st) sidewall 452^(nd) sidewall 46 3^(rd) sidewall 47 4^(th) sidewall 48 Water line 49Fastener 50 First corner 51 Second corner 52 Third corner 53 Fourthcorner 54 Forty-five degree corner filler 55 Exterior perimeter of 1-4sidewalls 56 Interior perimeter of 1-4 sidewalls 57 Area - exteriorperimeter of 1-4 58 sidewalls Area - interior perimeter of 1-4 59sidewalls Exercise pool 60 Head end  60a Foot end  60b Wall Gap 61 WaterStop 62 Concrete Channel 63 Wall Stiffener 64 Top Seat 65 Corner Cap 66Coping 67 Skimmer 68 69 Self-contained drop-in propulsion unit 70 Frontside 71 Back side 72 Top side (removable lid configurable as 73 lid)Bottom side 74 Left end 75 Right end 76 Interior 77 78 79 Plenumarrangement 80 Water inlet(s) 81 Common outlet (discharge) 82Equalization wall 83 Propeller housing 84 Propeller shroud  84aPropeller plate (horizontal plane)  84b Propellers (pair) 87 Left  87aRight  87b Propeller shaft 88 Hydraulic drive motor 89 Curved vanes(set) 90 Air slot 91 Grating 92 Speed indicator 93 Pumping unit control94 Speed Indicator 95 Remote 96 Hydraulic manifold -propeller drive  97aHydraulic manifold -cooler  97b Air gap 98 Water level 99 Circuitouswater flow paths (pair) 100  Water flow path (head to foot) 100a Waterflow path (foot to head) 100b 101  Inner water containment area 102 103  Pool floor 110  Existing floor 111  Self-level concrete (firstlayer) 112  Second layer 113  PVC (rigid) 114  PVC (rigid) outer area114a PVC (rigid) outer perimeter 114b Insulation (pink board) 115 Insulation (pink board) inner area 115a Third layer - vinyl liner 116 Compression strip 117  Compression cover 117a Fastener (floor) 119 

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and constitute apart of this specification, illustrate embodiments and together with thedescription, serve to explain and illustrate the principles of theExercise Pool as disclosed herein.

FIG. 17 is an exploded view of another embodiment of the modular wallstructure shown in FIGS. 1-16 which may be implemented with the drop-inself-contained propulsion unit disclosed and discussion in FIGS. 17A-24.

FIG. 17A is an exploded view of one embodiment of the self-containeddrop-in propulsion unit disclosed illustrated with a set of drop-in flow(water return) tunnels, without restriction or limitation.

FIG. 18 is an exploded view of another embodiment of the modular wallstructure shown in FIGS. 1-16 which may be implemented with the drop-inself-contained propulsion unit disclosed and discussion in FIGS. 17A-24illustrated without a set of drop-in flow (water return) tunnels,without restriction or limitation.

FIG. 19 is a simplified top view of the Exercise Pool disclosed andclaimed herein, particularly the drop-in propulsion unit positioned atthe head end of the exercise pool illustrating the discharge of thecirculating water flow from the self-contained drop-in propulsion unitwherein the circulating water flow forms a pair of circuitous water flowpaths in the exercise pool, a first water flow path flowing from thehead end to the foot end of the exercise pool, the first water flow pathuseful for swimming, and a second water flow path from the foot end tothe head end of the exercise pool for recirculation.

FIG. 20 is an illustrative perspective view of one embodiment of theself-contained drop-in propulsion unit, illustrating with particularitythe plenum arrangement including the common outlet and the plurality ofwater inlets in relation to the water line and air gap during operation.As shown, the upper portion has been removed.

FIG. 20A is a side view of the self-contained drop-in propulsion unitwith upper portion in place. FIG. 20B is a side view of the top side lid(configured as a walkway) removed from the self-contained propulsionunit.

FIG. 21 is perspective view of another embodiment of the self-containeddrop-in propulsion unit with the upper portion removed and positioned inthe first and second corners of pool having walls.

FIG. 21A is an end view of the embodiment shown at FIG. 21A with the topside lid of FIG. 20B in position with a portion of the pool side wallremoved to better illustrate the end view.

FIG. 22 is an illustrative perspective view of the self-containeddrop-in propulsion unit and plenum arrangement. A portion of the gratingcovering the common outlet has been removed to better expose the set ofcurved vanes, pair of propellers, hydraulic drive motors andequalization wall

FIG. 22A is a top view of the plenum arrangement of the self-containeddrop-in propulsion unit with the propellers removed to better expose theplenum and propeller shrouds.

FIG. 22B is a top view of the pair of propeller used to generate anddrive the circulating water flows transmitted from the self-containeddrop-in propulsion unit. As shown, the propellers are left hand andright hand and timed to work together, rotating towards each other, togenerate a symmetric flow for an enhanced user experience and returnflow without return channels along the sides of the pool walls or flowdiversion devices located at the foot end of the exercise pool.

FIG. 22C is an end view of the plenum arrangement used in theself-contained drop-in propulsion unit. As shown herein, the plenumarrangement is fabricated from stainless steel.

FIG. 23 is an illustrative front view of another embodiment of theself-contained propulsion unit as positioned in combination with themodular wall structure of FIG. 18.

FIG. 24 is a perspective view of the pumping/control unit for the SafeTreadmill Swimming Pool. As disclosed, the unit may be configured withan electric motor with a variable frequency drive allowing full speedcontrol for an enhanced user experience. The speed of the external motoris controlled by a variable frequency device (VFD). Accordingly, theamount of electrical energy used by the external motor is proportionalto the speed of the propulsion system. To increase the speed of thepropulsion system, the speed of the electric motor is increased usingthe VFD. As disclosed the VFD is mounted adjacent the external motor andthe VFD may be controlled remotely by the user.

FIG. 25 is a speed indicator for the pool and is electrically connectedto the electric drive motor and VFD which are externally positioned todrive the hydraulic system.

FIG. 26 is a perspective view of the hydraulic manifold for coupling tothe hydraulic drives of the pair of propellers.

FIG. 27 is a perspective view of the hydraulic fluid pumping systemmanifold of the plenum arrangement and the hydraulic fluid cooler whichmay be positioned therein.

FIG. 28 is a perspective view of pool floor fabrication method andstructure useful in reducing construction time and improving outcomesherein.

FIG. 28A is a detailed view of the first, second and third layers ofconstruction materials disclosed herein.

FIG. 29 is a simplified illustrative top view of an exercise pool andpool floor constructed according to FIGS. 28 and 28A.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Before the present Exercise Pool is disclosed and described, it is to beunderstood that the Exercise Pool is not limited to specific methods,specific components, or to particular implementations. It is also to beunderstood that the terminology used herein is for the purpose ofdescribing particular embodiments only and is not intended to belimiting.

As used in the specification and the appended claims, the singular forms“a,” “an,” and “the” include plural referents unless the context clearlydictates otherwise. Ranges may be expressed herein as from “about” oneparticular value, and/or to “about” another particular value. When sucha range is expressed, another embodiment includes from the oneparticular value and/or to the other particular value. Similarly, whenvalues are expressed as approximations, by use of the antecedent“about,” it will be understood that the particular value forms anotherembodiment. It will be further understood that the endpoints of each ofthe ranges are significant both in relation to the other endpoint, andindependently of the other endpoint.

“Optional” or “optionally” means that the subsequently described eventor circumstance may or may not occur, and that the description includesinstances where said event or circumstance occurs and instances where itdoes not.

Throughout the description and claims of this specification, the word“comprise” and variations of the word, such as “comprising” and“comprises,” means “including but not limited to,” and is not intendedto exclude, for example, other components, integers or steps.“Exemplary” means “an example of” and is not intended to convey anindication of a preferred or ideal embodiment. “Such as” is not used ina restrictive sense, but for explanatory purposes.

Disclosed are components that can be used to perform the disclosedExercise Pool as a stand-alone unit, a drop-in unit or as a speciallyconfigured pool having a flow head built in. These and other componentsare disclosed herein, and it is understood that when combinations,subsets, interactions, groups, etc. of these components are disclosedthat while specific reference of each various individual and collectivecombinations and permutation of these may not be explicitly disclosed,each is specifically contemplated and described herein, for all ExercisePool with Circulating Flow. This applies to all aspects of thisapplication including, but not limited to, components of an ExercisePool with Circulating Flow. Thus, if there are a variety of additionalcomponents that can be added it is understood that each of theseadditional components can be added with any specific embodiment orcombination of embodiments of the Exercise Pool with Circulating Flow.The present Exercise Pool with Circulating Flow may be understood morereadily by reference to the following detailed description of preferredembodiments and the examples included therein and to the Figures andtheir previous and following description.

In one embodiment, the Exercise Pool with Circulating Flow may beconstructed of material of sufficient strength and durability to supportlong term use for swimming, exercise and enjoyment. It is contemplatedthat in the illustrative embodiment shown in the enclosed figures may beconstructed of, but not limited to, any metal or combination of metalsincluding bronze, steel, stainless steel and aluminum; plastics orcarbon fiber including Kevlar®, foam-blown polyurethane, thermoplasticpolyurethane, ethylene vinyl acetate, other polymers, otherthermoplastics, carbon rubber, blown rubber polymers, compositematerials, natural materials (e.g., rubber, leather, etc.), elastomers,combinations thereof, and/or any other material with suitablecharacteristics (e.g., compressive strength, stability, elasticity,density). As disclosed and configured, the Exercise Pool may beconfigured as a flow box for containment or as a container for the flowhead components (plenum arrangement 80) referred to herein as a“Self-contained drop-in propulsion unit”. As disclosed and configured,the Exercise Pool may also be configured with a removable walk deck 73which may be configured from aluminum. The flow box may be configuredwith an air gap 98 above the flow head portion (plenum arrangement 80).

As disclosed and configured, the Exercise Pool may be configured withhydraulic drive motors 89 which may be exposed to and immersed in water24/7.

As disclosed and configured, the Exercise Pool may be configured withdual propellers which may be reversible. In the dual propellerconfiguration, the propellers may be configured to be timed and rotatingtowards each other to produce a common flow. As disclosed andconfigured, each propeller sits within its own shroud which results inbalanced flow which further enhances swim experience. As shown, thepropeller system may be positioned in its own section (flowbox) withinthe self-container propulsion unit 70 for improved safety significantlyreducing the potential for body and hair entrapment. As disclosed andconfigured, the Exercise Pool may be configured with removable walls andgrate sections, installed in any length or size. As disclosed andconfigured, the Exercise Pool may be configured with an adjustable flowhead (turning vain) for direction compression flow. As disclosed andconfigured, Exercise Pool may be configured with multiple flow heads.

FIG. 17 is an exploded view of another embodiment of the modularinterlocking panels 9 used to build a modular pool sidewall (45-48) asshown in FIGS. 1-16 which may be implemented with the drop-inself-contained propulsion unit 70 disclosed and discussion in FIGS.17A-24. One of ordinary skill will appreciate that the drop-inself-contained propulsion unit 70 may also be used in a pool havingsidewalls 45-48 which are not produced with modular interlocking panels9, without limitation or restriction. FIG. 17A is an exploded view ofone embodiment of the self-contained drop-in propulsion unit 70disclosed and illustrated with a set of drop-in flow (water return)tunnels 3, without restriction or limitation.

FIG. 18 is an exploded view of another embodiment of the modular wallstructure shown in FIGS. 1-16 which may be implemented with the drop-inself-contained propulsion unit 70 disclosed and discussed in FIGS.17A-24 illustrated without a set of drop-in flow (water return) tunnels,without restriction or limitation. Both FIG. 17 and FIG. 18 disclosemodular interlocking panels 9 comprising a concrete channel 63, a wallstiffener 64 and a top seat 65. A water stop 62 positions between themodular interlocking panels 9 preventing any leakage of the water out ofExercise Pool 60. A corner cap 65 positions on top of the water stop 66as disclosed herein. FIG. 19 is a simplified top view of the ExercisePool 60 disclosed and claimed herein, particularly the drop-inpropulsion unit 70 positioned at the head end 60 a of the exercise poolillustrating the discharge of the circulating water flow from theself-contained drop-in propulsion unit 70 wherein the circulating waterflow forms a pair of circuitous water flow paths 100 in the exercisepool, a first water flow path flowing from the head end to the foot end100 a of the exercise pool, the first water flow path 100 a useful forswimming, and a second water flow path from the foot end 100 b to thehead end of the exercise pool for recirculation. The exercise pool 60with a circulating water flow as shown in FIGS. 18-19, is similar to thepool shown in FIGS. 1-16, in that it is also configured to have a firstsidewall 45, a second sidewall 46, a third sidewall 47 and a fourthsidewall 48, each sidewall generally non-curved and having a first end(45 a, 46 a, 47 a, 48 a) and a second end (45 b, 46 b, 47 b, 48 b), thefirst end of the first sidewall 45 aand the first end of the secondsidewall 46 aforming a first corner of the exercise pool 51, the secondend of the first wall 45 band the first end of the third wall 47aforming a second corner of the exercise pool 52, the first and secondcorners forming the head end of the exercise pool 60 a, the second endof the second wall 46 band the first end of the fourth wall 48 aforminga third corner of the exercise pool 53, the second end of the third wall47 band the second end of the fourth wall 48 bforming a fourth corner ofthe exercise pool 54, the third and fourth corners forming the foot endof the exercise pool 60.

As shown in FIGS. 19 and FIG. 28, the exercise pool floor 110 ispositioned below and connected to the bottom of the first sidewall 45,the second sidewall 46, the third sidewall 47 and the fourth sidewall48, wherein the exercise pool floor 110 is generally non-sloped. Asdisclosed and discussed, the pool floor 110 may be constructed frommultiple layers. See FIG. 28

As shown in FIGS. 17-27, as self-contained drop-in propulsion unit 70may be positioned on the exercise pool floor 110 between the first andsecond corners of the exercise pool (51, 52), defined as the head end(60 a), the self-contained drop-in propulsion unit shown in detail inFIGS. 20-26 as discussed herein. FIG. 20 is an illustrative perspectiveview of one embodiment of the self-contained drop-in propulsion unit 70,illustrating with particularity the plenum arrangement 80 including thecommon outlet 82 and the plurality of water inlets 81 in relation to theair gap 98 and water level 99 during operation. As shown, the top side73 may be configured as a walkway and has been removed. FIG. 20A is aside view of the self-contained drop-in propulsion unit 70 with top side73 in place. FIG. 20B is a side view of the top side lid (configured asa walkway) removed from the self-contained propulsion unit 70.

FIG. 21 is perspective view of another embodiment of the self-containeddrop-in propulsion unit 70 with the top side removed 73 and positionedin the first and second corners (51, 52) of the exercise pool havingwalls (45,46 and 47). FIG. 21A is an end view of the embodiment shown atFIG. 21A with the top side lid of FIG. 20B in position with a portion ofthe pool sidewall 47 removed to better illustrate the end view.

FIG. 22 is an illustrative perspective view of the self-containeddrop-in propulsion unit 70 and plenum arrangement 80. A portion of thegrating covering the common outlet 82 has been removed to better exposethe set of curved vanes 90, the pair of propellers 87, hydraulic drivemotors 89 and equalization wall 83. One of ordinary skill willappreciate that both the common outlet 82 and the plurality of inlets 81may be configured as a grate or with grating 92, as suitable for aparticular application. The dimensions of each particular “opening”within a particular grate are unimportant. As shown herein a flow gratehaving one inch by one-inch (1.0×1.0) openings is acceptable andsuitable. In other applications, acceptable performance was achievedusing grating having one inch by 0.375 inch (1.0×⅜). As shown herein,the grating may be larger pieces, see FIG. 20 illustrating four piecesof grating covering the plurality of inlets 81 compared to twenty-one(21) individual pieces of grating 92 covering the plurality of inlets 81in FIG. 23. The number, size and arrangements are solely dependent whatis suitable for a particular application as desired by the market andthe user requirements—durability, performance, cost, etc.

As described and disclosed, the self-contained drop-in propulsion unit70 is to be positioned on the exercise pool floor 110 between the firstand second corners of the exercise pool (51, 52), defined as the headend (60 a), the self-contained drop-in propulsion unit having a frontside 71, a back side 72, a top side 73, a left end 75, a right end 76and a bottom side 74 enclosing an interior 77, wherein the bottom side74 is configured to rest on the exercise pool floor 110, wherein theback side 72 is configured to be positioned against the first sidewall45. The self-contained drop-in propulsion unit 70 is configured with aninternally positioned plenum arrangement 80 that supports circulating awater flow to and from the adjacently positioned inner water containmentare 2. The plenum arrangement is configured with at least a pair ofpropellers 87 positioned in the interior of the plenum arrangement 80,the pair of propellers positioned adjacent each other and in a commonhorizontal plane as shown in FIGS. 22, 22A and 22B. Each propeller (87a, 87 b) of the pair of propellers 87 is configured for rotation towardsthe adjacent propeller in the horizontal plane. As shown in FIG. 22A,the propeller housing 84 includes propeller shroud 84 a positioned onthe propeller plate 84 b which is positioned in the horizontal plane.Each propeller 87 a, 87 b is coupled to a hydraulic motor 89(illustrated conceptually in FIG. 22), which for coupling to externallypositioned hydraulic system. FIG. 22C is an end view of the plenumarrangement 80 used in the self-contained drop-in propulsion unit 70. Asshown herein, the plenum arrangement 80 is fabricated from stainlesssteel but could be fabricated from other materials as is well known toone of ordinary skill in the art. As shown throughout the figures and inparticular FIGS. 22 and 23, a plurality of water inlets are positionedin the front side of the plenum arrangement 80 (and thus theself-contained drop-in propulsion unit 70) to allow a circulating waterflow to enter the interior of the self-contained drop-in propulsion unit70 for communication with the pair of propellers 87. FIG. 22A provides atop view of the plenum arrangement 80 with the propellers removed tobetter expose the plenum arrangement 80, propeller housing 84, propellershroud 84 a and propeller plate (horizontal plane) 84 b. FIG. 22B is atop view of the pair of propellers 87 used to generate and drive thecirculating water flows transmitted from the plenum arrangement 80 ofthe self-contained drop-in propulsion unit 70. As shown, the propellersare left hand (87 a) and right hand (87 b) and timed to work together,rotating towards each other, to generate a symmetric flow for anenhanced user experience and return flow without return channels alongthe sides of the pool sidewalls (46, 47) or flow diversion deviceslocated at the foot end of the exercise pool 60 b.

As shown in FIG. 22, an equalization wall 83 is positioned in the plenumarrangement 80, the equalization wall 83 positioned between theplurality of water inlets 81 and the pair of propellers 87, theequalization wall 83 configured to balance the quantity of thecirculating water flow to and between the pair of propellers 87. A setof curved vanes 90 is located in the plenum arrangement 80 andpositioned above the pair of propellers 87, the set of curved vanes 90configured to engage with and turn the circulating water flow from thepair of propellers 87 in a generally vertical direction to a generallyhorizontal direction. (See FIG. 22 for additional detail)

The common outlet 82 is then positioned in the front side of theself-contained drop-in propulsion unit 71 and in fluid communicationwith the set of curved vanes 90 of the plenum arrangement 80, the commonoutlet configured to allow discharge of the circulating water flow fromthe plenum arrangement 80 of the self-contained drop-in propulsion unit70 wherein the circulating water flow forms a pair of circuitous waterflow paths in the exercise pool 100, a first water flow path flowingfrom the head end to the foot end of the exercise pool 100 a, the firstwater flow path useful for swimming, and a second water flow path fromthe foot end to the head end of the exercise pool for recirculationthrough the plenum arrangement by the pair of propellers via theplurality of water inlets in the front side of the self-containeddrop-in propulsion unit. See FIG. 19 for additional detail on thecircuitous water flow paths 100.

As disclosed and discussed in FIGS. 1, 24 and 26, a self-containedhydraulic system 5 positioned exterior of the self-contained drop-inpropulsion unit 70 is coupled or connected to the pair of propellers 87to drive the pair of propellers 87 for discharge of the water flow path100 a into the inner water containment area 2 located anterior of theself-contained drop-in propulsion unit 70, the inner water containmentarea 2 defined by the second sidewall 46, the third sidewall 47 and thefourth sidewall 48 of the exercise pool 60. As shown in FIGS. 18, 19 and29, the inner water containment area 2 has an absence of a separatereturn flow structure 3 to aid in delivery of the circulating water flowto the pair of propellers 87 via the plurality of inlets 81 in theplenum arrangement 80 of the self-contained drop-in propulsion unit 70.

FIG. 23 is an illustrative front view of another embodiment of theself-contained propulsion unit 70 as positioned in combination with themodular wall structure of FIG. 18. As shown the self-containedpropulsion unit 70 and plenum arrangement 80 are configured with atleast one air slot 91 is positioned in the front side 71 of the plenumarrangement of the self-contained drop-in propulsion unit, the at leastone air slot 91 is positioned above both the common outlet 82 and theplurality of water inlets 81 to limit the height (level) of thecirculating water present in the interior of the self-contained drop-inpropulsion unit and maintain an air gap above the circulating waterflow, called out or defined as the “water level” 99. See FIGS. 20, 21and 23. One of ordinary skill will appreciate that air gap 98 should bepositioned above the plurality of water inlets in front side 71 and mayhave any shape acceptable and suitable to allow for maintaining an airgap 28 during operating of the propulsion system 70. As shown in FIG.23, three air slots 91 are positioned across the top of the front sideof the self-contained drop-in unit 70, each air slot of similar size andhaving a lower dimension in the range of six (6.0) inches from the topto produce a corresponding air gap of six (6.0) inches. As shown inFIGS. 19, 20 and 23, the common outlet 82 is typically positioned in thefront side of the plenum arrangement 71 and is generally centeredbetween the left end and the right end of the self-contained drop-inpropulsion unit (75, 76). FIG. 24 is a perspective view of the pumpingunit control 94 for the Exercise Pool 60. As disclosed, the pumping unitmay be configured with an electric motor (not shown) with a variablefrequency drive (VFD) (not shown) allowing full speed control for anenhanced user experience. The speed of the external electric motor (notshown) is controlled by a variable frequency device (VFD). Accordingly,the amount of electrical energy used by the external motor isproportional to the speed of the propulsion system. To increase thespeed of the propulsion system, the speed of the electric motor isincreased using the VFD. As disclosed the VFD is mounted adjacent theexternal electric motor and the VFD may be controlled via a remote 96 bythe user.

FIG. 25 is a speed indicator 93 for the circulating water in theexercise pool and is electrically connected to the electric drive motorand VFD which are externally positioned to drive the hydraulic system 5.FIG. 26 is a perspective view of the hydraulic manifold 97 a forcoupling to the hydraulic drives of the pair of propellers 87. FIG. 27is a perspective view of the hydraulic fluid pumping system manifold 97b of the plenum arrangement 80 and the hydraulic fluid cooler 97 b whichmay be positioned therein.

FIG. 28 is a perspective view of pool floor 110 fabrication method andstructure useful in reducing construction time and improving outcomesherein. The exercise pool 60 with a circulating water flow may beconstructed with a pool floor 110 positioned below and connected to thebottom of the first sidewall 45, the second sidewall 46, the thirdsidewall 47 and the fourth sidewall 48, wherein the exercise pool floor110 is generally non-sloped and further comprises a first layer ofself-leveling concrete 112 applied to an existing level floor 111 and isat least the equivalent area as the area 58 occupied by an exteriorperimeter 56 formed by the first sidewall 45, the second sidewall 46,the third sidewall 47 and the fourth sidewall 48. A second layer 113 isthen positioned upon the first layer of self-leveling concrete 112, thesecond layer 113 being composed of an outer area of rigid PVC 114 and aninner area of rigid insulation 115 (pink board), the outer area of rigidPVC 114 a having an outer perimeter 114 b and surrounding the inner areaof rigid foam board 115 a, wherein the bottom side of the first sidewall45 b(shown in FIGS. 28 and FIG. 28A), the second sidewall 46 b (notshown), the third sidewall 46 b (not shown) and the fourth sidewall 47 b(not shown) rest directly upon the outer perimeter of rigid PVC 114 b. Athird layer 116 composed of a vinyl liner between 50 and 80 mils (mm)thick is positioned upon the second layer 113, the third layer 116 sizedto cover the second layer 113 enclosed by the area 59 of the interiorperimeter 57 of the first sidewall 45, the second sidewall 46, the thirdsidewall 47 and the fourth sidewall 48. The position of the second layer113 and the third layer 116 are fixed in relation to the first sidewall45, the second sidewall 46, the third sidewall 47 and the fourthsidewall 48 via a compression strip 117 attached via a plurality offloor fasteners 119 affixed into and through the compression strip 117,the third layer 116, the second layer 113 and the first layer 112, thecompression strip 117 positioned around an interior perimeter 57 formedby first sidewall 45, the second sidewall 46, the third sidewall 47 andthe fourth sidewall 48. FIG. 28A is a detailed view of the first layer112, second layer 113 and third layers 116 of construction materialsdisclosed herein. One of ordinary skill will appreciate hat compressionstrip 117 is configured and shown with a removable cover 117 a. FIG. 29is a simplified illustrative top view of an exercise pool 60 and poolfloor 110 constructed according to FIGS. 28 and 28A.

The following modifications, although not shown, would be obvious to oneof ordinary skill in the art in view of the present disclosure. Thevarious elements of the Exercise Pool may be separately formed and laterengaged with one another (e.g., via mechanical fasteners, materialfusing, chemical adhesives, etc.) or integrally formed with one another.The materials used to construct the Exercise Pool and various elementsthereof will vary depending on the specific application of the ExercisePool, but it is contemplated that steel, aluminum, polymers, othersynthetic materials, natural materials, and/or combinations thereof willbe especially useful for some applications. Accordingly, theabove-referenced elements may be constructed of any material known tothose skilled in the art or later developed, which material isappropriate for the specific application of the Exercise Pool, withoutdeparting from the spirit and scope of the Exercise Pool as disclosedand claimed herein.

Having described the preferred embodiments, other features of theExercise Pool will undoubtedly occur to those versed in the art, as willnumerous modifications and alterations in the embodiments as illustratedherein, all of which may be achieved without departing from the spiritand scope of the Exercise Pool disclosed herein. Accordingly, themethods and embodiments pictured and described herein are forillustrative purposes only, and the scope of the present disclosureextends to all method and/or structures for providing increasedfunctionality, comfort, longevity, enjoyment and aesthetics in the useand access of a Exercise Pool. Furthermore, the methods and embodimentspictured and described herein are no way limiting to the scope of theExercise Pool and method of use unless so stated in the followingclaims.

It should be noted that the Exercise Pool is not limited to the specificembodiments pictured and described herein, but is intended to apply toall similar apparatuses and methods for providing the various benefitsand/or features of a Safe Treadmill Swimming Pool. Modifications andalterations from the described embodiments will occur to those skilledin the art without departure from the spirit and scope of the SafeTreadmill Swimming Pool. It is understood that the Exercise Pool asdisclosed herein extends to all alternative combinations of one or moreof the individual features mentioned, evident from the text and/ordrawings, and/or inherently disclosed. All of these differentcombinations constitute various alternative aspects of the Exercise Pooland/or components thereof The embodiments described herein explain thebest modes known for practicing the Exercise Pool and/or componentsthereof and will enable others skilled in the art to utilize the same.The claims are to be construed to include alternative embodiments to theextent permitted by the prior art.

While the Exercise Pool has been described in connection with preferredembodiments and specific examples, it is not intended that the scope belimited to the particular embodiments set forth, as the embodimentsherein are intended in all respects to be illustrative rather thanrestrictive.

Unless otherwise expressly stated, it is in no way intended that anymethod set forth herein be construed as requiring that its steps beperformed in a specific order. Accordingly, where a method claim doesnot actually recite an order to be followed by its steps or it is nototherwise specifically stated in the claims or descriptions that thesteps are to be limited to a specific order, it is no way intended thatan order be inferred, in any respect. This holds for any possiblenon-express basis for interpretation, including but not limited to:matters of logic with respect to arrangement of steps or operationalflow; plain meaning derived from grammatical organization orpunctuation; the number or type of embodiments described in thespecification.

It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that variousmodifications and variations can be made without departing from thescope or spirit. Other embodiments will be apparent to those skilled inthe art from consideration of the specification and practice disclosedherein. It is intended that the specification and examples be consideredas illustrative only, with a true scope and spirit being indicated bythe following claims.

1. An exercise pool with a circulating water flow, comprising: a) anexercise pool having a first wall, a second wall, a third wall and afourth wall, each wall generally non-curved and having a first end and asecond end, the first end of the first wall and the first end of thesecond wall forming a first corner of the exercise pool, the second endof the first wall and the first end of the third wall forming a secondcorner of the exercise pool, the first and second corners forming thehead end of the exercise pool, the second end of the second wall and thefirst end of the fourth wall forming a third corner of the exercisepool, the second end of the third wall and the second end of the fourthwall forming a fourth corner of the exercise pool, the third and fourthcorners forming the foot end of the exercise pool; b) an exercise poolfloor positioned below and connected to the bottom of the first wall,the second wall, the third wall and the fourth wall, wherein theexercise pool floor is generally non-sloped; c) a self-contained drop-inpropulsion unit, the self-contained drop-in propulsion unit to bepositioned on the exercise pool floor between the first and secondcorners of the exercise pool, defined as the head end, theself-contained drop-in propulsion unit having a front side, a back side,a top side, a left end, a right end and a bottom side enclosing aninterior, wherein the bottom side is configured to rest on the exercisepool floor, wherein the back side is configured to be positioned againstthe first wall, wherein a plenum arrangement is positioned therein, theplenum arrangement further comprising: i. a pair of propellerspositioned in the interior of the plenum arrangement, the pair ofpropellers positioned adjacent each other and in a common horizontalplane, each propeller of the pair of propellers configured for rotationtowards the adjacent propeller in the horizontal plane; ii. a pluralityof water inlets positioned in the front side of the plenum arrangementto allow a circulating water flow to enter the interior of theself-contained drop-in propulsion unit for communication with the pairof propellers; iii. an equalization wall positioned in the plenumarrangement, the equalization wall positioned between the plurality ofwater inlets and the pair of propellers, the equalization wallconfigured to balance the quantity of the circulating water flow to andbetween the pair of propellers; iv. a set of curved vanes located in theinterior of the plenum arrangement and positioned above the pair ofpropellers, the set of curved vanes configured to engage with and turnthe circulating water flow from the pair of propellers in a generallyvertical direction to a generally horizontal direction; v. a commonoutlet positioned in the front side of the self-contained drop-inpropulsion unit and in fluid communication with the set of curved vanes,the common outlet configured to allow discharge of the circulating waterflow from the plenum arrangement of the self-contained drop-inpropulsion unit wherein the circulating water flow forms a pair ofcircuitous water flow paths in the exercise pool, a first water flowpath flowing from the head end to the foot end of the exercise pool, thefirst water flow path useful for swimming, and a second water flow pathfrom the foot end to the head end of the exercise pool for recirculationthrough the plenum arrangement by the pair of propellers via theplurality of water inlets in the front side of the self-containeddrop-in propulsion unit ; d) a self-contained hydraulic systempositioned exterior of the self-contained drop-in propulsion unit andconnected to the pair of propellers to drive the pair of propellers; ande) an inner water containment area located anterior of theself-contained drop-in propulsion unit and further defined by the secondwall, the third wall and the fourth wall of the exercise pool, whereinthe inner water containment area has an absence of a separate returnflow structure to aid in delivery of the circulating water flow to thepair of propellers via the plurality of inlets in the plenum arrangementof the self-contained drop-in propulsion unit.
 2. The exercise pool witha circulating water flow according to claim 1 wherein at least one airslot is positioned in the front side of the plenum arrangement of theself-contained drop-in propulsion unit, the at least one air slotpositioned above both the common outlet and the plurality of waterinlets to limit the height of the circulating water present in theinterior of the self-contained drop-in propulsion unit and maintain anair gap above the circulating water flow.
 3. The exercise pool with acirculating water flow according to claim 1 wherein the common outlet ispositioned in the front side of the plenum arrangement and generallycentered between the left end and the right end of the self-containeddrop-in propulsion unit.
 4. The exercise pool with a circulating waterflow according to claim 1 wherein the common outlet, the pair ofpropellers and the set of curved vanes are positioned in the front sideof the plenum arrangement and generally centered between the left endand the right end of the self-contained drop-in propulsion unit.
 5. Theexercise pool with a circulating water flow according to claim 1 whereinthe fourth wall of the exercise pool has an absence of a curved vane toaid in delivery of the circulating water flow back to the pair ofpropellers via the plurality of inlets for recirculation andpressurization of the circulating water flow.
 6. The exercise pool witha circulating water flow according to claim 1 wherein the fourth wall ofthe exercise pool has an absence of any flow bending structure to aid indelivery of the circulating water flow back to the pair of propellersvia the plurality of inlets for recirculation and pressurization of thecirculating water flow.
 7. The exercise pool with a circulating waterflow according to claim 1 wherein the top side of the self-containeddrop-in propulsion unit is removable.
 8. The exercise pool with acirculating water flow according to claim 1 wherein the top side of theself-contained drop-in propulsion unit is configured as a walkway. 9.The exercise pool with a circulating water flow according to claim 1wherein the walls are built from a plurality of modular pieces.
 10. Theexercise pool with a circulating water flow according to claim 1 whereinthe equalization wall is positioned below the pair of propellerspositioned in the interior of the self-contained drop-in propulsion unitand extends from the front side to the back side of the plenumarrangement.
 11. The exercise pool with a circulating water flowaccording to claim 1 wherein the common outlet is configured as a grate.12. The exercise pool with a circulating water flow according to claim 1wherein the plurality of water inlets is configured as grating.
 13. Theexercise pool with a circulating water flow according to claim 1 whereinthe circulating water flow forms a pair of circuitous water flow pathsin the exercise pool, a first water flow path flowing from the head endto the foot end of the exercise pool and generally in the center of thepool, the first water flow path useful for swimming, and a second waterflow path flowing from the foot end to the head end of the exercise pooland generally along the second and the third sides of the pool forrecirculation by the pair of propellers via the plurality of waterinlets.
 14. The exercise pool with a circulating water flow according toclaim 1 wherein each propeller of the pair of propellers is powered by ahydraulic motor which is coupled to the self-contained hydraulic systempositioned exterior of the self-contained drop-in propulsion unit todrive the pair of propellers.
 15. The exercise pool with a circulatingwater flow according to claim 1 wherein the exercise pool floorpositioned below and connected to the bottom of the first wall, thesecond wall, the third wall and the fourth wall, wherein the exercisepool floor is generally non-sloped and further comprises: a) a firstlayer of self-leveling concrete applied to an existing level floor andis of an equivalent area as the area occupied by an exterior perimeterformed by the first wall, the second wall, the third wall and the fourthwall; b) a second layer positioned upon the first layer of self-levelingconcrete, the second layer composed of an outer area of pvc and an innerarea of rigid foam board, the outer area of pvc having an outerperimeter and surrounding the inner area of rigid foam board, whereinthe bottom side of the first wall, the second wall, the third wall andthe fourth wall rest directly upon the outer perimeter of rigid pvc; c)a third layer composed of vinyl positioned upon the second layer, thethird layer sized to cover the second layer enclosed by the interior ofthe first wall, the second wall, the third wall and the fourth wall; d)wherein the position of the second layer and the third layer are fixedin relation to the first wall, the second wall, the third wall and thefourth wall via a compression strip attached via a plurality offasteners affixed into and through the compression strip, the thirdlayer, the second layer and the first layer, the compression strippositioned around an interior perimeter formed by the first wall, thesecond wall, the third wall and the fourth wall.
 16. A self-containeddrop-in propulsion unit for use with a pool to create an exercise pool,the self-contained drop-in propulsion unit comprising: a) a plenumarrangement enclosing an interior as defined by a front side, a backside, a top side, a left end, a right end and a bottom side of theself-contained drop-in propulsion unit; b) a pair of propellerspositioned in the interior of the self-contained drop-in propulsionunit, the pair of propellers positioned adjacent each other and in acommon horizontal plane, each propeller of the pair of propellersconfigured for rotation towards the adjacent propeller in the horizontalplane; c) a plurality of water inlets positioned in the front side ofthe plenum arrangement to allow a circulating water flow to enter theinterior of the self-contained drop-in propulsion unit for communicationwith the pair of propellers; d) an equalization wall positioned in theinterior of the self-contained drop-in propulsion unit, the equalizationwall positioned between the plurality of water inlets and the pair ofpropellers, the equalization wall configured to balance the quantity ofthe circulating water flow to and between the pair of propellers; e) aset of curved vanes located in the interior of the self-containeddrop-in propulsion unit and positioned above the pair of propellers, theset of curved vanes configured to engage with and turn the circulatingwater flow from the pair of propellers in a generally vertical directionto a generally horizontal direction; f) a common outlet positioned inthe front side of the plenum arrangement and in fluid communication withthe set of curved vanes, the common outlet configured to allow dischargeof the circulating water flow from the self-contained drop-in propulsionunit wherein the circulating water flow forms a pair of circuitous waterflow paths in the exercise pool, a first water flow path flowing fromthe head end to the foot end of the exercise pool, the first water flowpath useful for swimming, and a second water flow path from the foot endto the head end of the exercise pool for recirculation by the pair ofpropellers via the plurality of water inlets; g) a self-containedhydraulic system positioned exterior of the self-contained drop-inpropulsion unit and connected to the pair of propellers to drive thepair of propellers, wherein the self-contained drop-in propulsion unitmay be positioned in a pool with an inner water containment area locatedanterior of the self-contained drop-in propulsion unit, wherein theinner water containment area has an absence of a separate return flowstructure to aid in delivery of the circulating water flow to the pairof propellers via the plurality of inlets thereby allowing conversion ofthe pool into an exercise pool.
 17. A self-contained drop-in propulsionunit for use with a pool to create an exercise pool according to claim16, wherein each propeller of the pair of propellers is powered by ahydraulic motor which is coupled to the self-contained hydraulic systempositioned exterior of the self-contained drop-in propulsion unit todrive the pair of propellers.
 18. A self-contained exercise pool forcontainment of water and generation of water currents thereincomprising: a) a rigid frame exteriorly located and surrounding an innerwater containment area having a first, a second, a third and a fourthside wherein the rigid frame further comprising: i. a plurality of poolpanels having a first and second side, the first side having arelatively smooth surface and positioned to face the inner watercontainment area; ii. a plurality of vertically orientated wall and decksupports positioned around the perimeter of the inner water containmentarea and wherein the second side of the plurality of pool panelsattaches to the plurality of wall and deck supports; iii. a plurality ofhorizontally orientated wall supports having a first and second sideconnected to and between the plurality of vertically orientated wall anddeck supports and wherein the first side of the plurality ofhorizontally orientated wall supports faces the second side of pluralityof the pool panels; iv. a plurality of tension straps attached to thefirst, second, third and fourth sides, wherein a pre-determined numberof the tension straps are positioned to connect the first side to thethird side of the inner water containment area and a pre-determinednumber of the tension straps are positioned to connect the second sideto the fourth side of the inner water containment area; v. a pluralityof wall seam connecting plates positioned at the upper exterior portionof the wall and deck supports for attachment of adjacent the pluralityof wall and deck supports; and vi. a plurality of adjustable screwplates positioned at the lower exterior portion of the wall and decksupports for attachment of adjacent the plurality of wall and decksupports; vii. an exercise pool floor positioned below and connected tothe bottom of the first wall, the second wall, the third wall and thefourth wall, wherein the exercise pool floor is generally non-sloped; b)a self-contained drop-in propulsion unit, the self-contained drop-inpropulsion unit to be positioned on the pool floor between the first andsecond corners of the exercise pool, defined as the head end, theself-contained drop-in propulsion unit further comprising: i. a plenumarrangement enclosing an interior as defined by a front side, a backside, a top side, a left end, a right end and a bottom side of theself-contained drop-in propulsion unit; ii. a pair of propellerspositioned in the interior of the self-contained drop-in propulsionunit, the pair of propellers positioned adjacent each other and in acommon horizontal plane, each propeller of the pair of propellersconfigured for rotation towards the adjacent propeller in the horizontalplane; iii. a plurality of water inlets positioned in the front side ofthe plenum arrangement to allow a circulating water flow to enter theinterior of the self-contained drop-in propulsion unit for communicationwith the pair of propellers; iv. an equalization wall positioned in theinterior of the self-contained drop-in propulsion unit, the equalizationwall positioned between the plurality of water inlets and the pair ofpropellers, the equalization wall configured to balance the quantity ofthe circulating water flow to and between the pair of propellers; v. aset of curved vanes located in the interior of the self-containeddrop-in propulsion unit and positioned above the pair of propellers, theset of curved vanes configured to engage with and turn the circulatingwater flow from the pair of propellers in a generally vertical directionto a generally horizontal direction; vi. a common outlet positioned inthe front side of the plenum arrangement and in fluid communication withthe set of curved vanes, the common outlet configured to allow dischargeof the circulating water flow from the self-contained drop-in propulsionunit wherein the circulating water flow forms a pair of circuitous waterflow paths in the exercise pool, a first water flow path flowing fromthe head end to the foot end of the exercise pool, the first water flowpath useful for swimming, and a second water flow path from the foot endto the head end of the exercise pool for recirculation by the pair ofpropellers via the plurality of water inlets; and, c) a power system fordriving the pair of propellers to produce a current in the inner watercontainment area and wherein the power system is self-contained andmounted external of the rigid frame.
 19. The self-contained swimmingpool for containment of water and generation of water currents thereinaccording to claim 18 wherein the water produces outward forces thatwhen placed upon the tension strap ends lock the tension straps endsagainst the openings in the lower portion of the plurality of the walland deck supports.
 20. The self-contained swimming pool for containmentof water and generation of water currents therein according to claim 18wherein the plurality of tension straps are horizontally orientated andeach the tension strap has a first end and a second end, the first endand the second end each having a vertical portion therein for insertioninto a vertical opening in the lower portion of the wall and decksupports wherein the vertical portion of the tension strap isperpendicular with the wall and deck support.
 21. The self-containedswimming pool as set forth in claim 18 wherein a decorative horizontalsurface is positioned upon the rigid frame to surround the inner watercontainment area.
 22. The self-contained swimming pool as set forth inclaim 18 wherein the rigid frame is composed of modular interlockingpanels.
 23. The self-contained swimming pool as set forth in claim 22wherein the modular interlocking panels are opposedly positioned forincreased structural rigidity.
 24. The self-contained swimming pool asset forth in claim 23 wherein the modular interlocking panels areconnected by tension straps to further improve structural rigidity. 25.A self-contained swimming pool for containment of water and generationof water currents therein comprising: a) a rigid frame exteriorlypositioned around the perimeter of an inner water containment area-therigid frame further comprising: i. at least one modular interlockingpanel having a first and a second end; ii. at least one pair of verticalwall supports, wherein each said first end and each said second end ofsaid at least one modular interlocking panel is connected to least onevertical wall support of said at least one pair of wall verticalsupports; and, iii. at least one horizontal wall support positioned onthe exterior of said rigid frame adjacent said at least one modularinterlocking panel and connected between said at least one pair ofadjacent vertical wall supports; b) a propulsion system in communicationwith and configured to circulate water in the inner water containmentarea without a set of separate water return channels; and, c) ahydraulic system for driving the propulsion system using a hydraulicfluid to produce a current in the inner water containment area andwherein the hydraulic system is self-contained and mounted external ofthe rigid frame.
 26. The self-contained swimming pool according to claim25 wherein a decorative horizontal surface is positioned upon the rigidframe to surround the inner water containment area.
 27. Theself-contained swimming pool as set forth in claim 25 wherein themodular interlocking panels are opposedly positioned for increasedstructural rigidity.
 28. The exercise pool with a circulating water flowaccording to claim 1 wherein the drop-in propulsion unit is configuredso that the pool floor is the bottom side of the drop-in propulsionunit.
 29. An exercise pool with a circulating water flow, comprising: a)an exercise pool having a first wall, a second wall, a third wall and afourth wall, each wall generally non-curved and having a first end and asecond end, the first end of the first wall and the first end of thesecond wall forming a first corner of the exercise pool, the second endof the first wall and the first end of the third wall forming a secondcorner of the exercise pool, the first and second corners forming thehead end of the exercise pool, the second end of the second wall and thefirst end of the fourth wall forming a third corner of the exercisepool, the second end of the third wall and the second end of the fourthwall forming a fourth corner of the exercise pool, the third and fourthcorners forming the foot end of the exercise pool; b) an exercise poolfloor positioned below and connected to the bottom of the first wall,the second wall, the third wall and the fourth wall; c) a self-containeddrop-in propulsion unit, the self-contained drop-in propulsion unit tobe positioned on the exercise pool floor between the first and secondcorners of the exercise pool, defined as the head end, theself-contained drop-in propulsion unit having a front side, a back side,a top side, a left end, a right end and a bottom side enclosing aninterior, wherein the bottom side is configured to rest on the exercisepool floor, wherein the back side is configured to be positioned againstthe first wall, wherein a plenum arrangement is positioned therein, theplenum arrangement further comprising: i. a pair of powered propellerspositioned in the interior of the plenum arrangement, the pair ofpowered propellers positioned adjacent each other and in a commonhorizontal plane, each propeller of the pair of powered propellersconfigured for rotation towards the adjacent propeller in the horizontalplane wherein said pair of powered propellers are powered by a hydraulicunit positioned exterior of the self-contained drop-in propulsion unit;ii. a plurality of water inlets positioned in the front side of theplenum arrangement to allow a circulating water flow to enter theinterior of the self-contained drop-in propulsion unit for communicationwith the pair of propellers; iii. a set of curved vanes located in theinterior of the plenum arrangement and positioned above the pair ofpropellers, the set of curved vanes configured to engage with and turnthe circulating water flow from the pair of propellers in a generallyvertical direction to a generally horizontal direction; iv. a commonoutlet positioned in the front side of the self-contained drop-inpropulsion unit and in fluid communication with the set of curved vanes,the common outlet configured to allow discharge of the circulating waterflow from the plenum arrangement of the self-contained drop-inpropulsion unit; d) an inner water containment area located anterior ofthe self-contained drop-in propulsion unit and further defined by thesecond wall, the third wall and the fourth wall of the exercise pool,wherein the inner water containment area has an absence of a separatereturn flow structure to aid in delivery of the circulating water flowto the pair of propellers via the plurality of inlets in the plenumarrangement of the self-contained drop-in propulsion unit.
 30. Theexercise pool with a circulating water flow according to claim 29wherein at least one air slot is positioned in the front side of theplenum arrangement of the self-contained drop-in propulsion unit. 31.The exercise pool with a circulating water flow according to claim 30wherein the at least one air slot is positioned above both the commonoutlet and the plurality of water inlets to limit the height of thecirculating water present in the interior of the self-contained drop-inpropulsion unit and maintain an air gap above the circulating waterflow.
 32. The exercise pool with a circulating water flow according toclaim 29 wherein the common outlet is positioned in the front side ofthe plenum arrangement and generally centered between the left end andthe right end of the self-contained drop-in propulsion unit.
 33. Theexercise pool with a circulating water flow according to claim 29wherein the common outlet, the pair of propellers and the set of curvedvanes are positioned in the front side of the plenum arrangement andgenerally centered between the left end and the right end of theself-contained drop-in propulsion unit.
 34. The exercise pool with acirculating water flow according to claim 29 wherein the fourth wall ofthe exercise pool has an absence of any flow bending structure to aid indelivery of the circulating water flow back to the pair of propellersvia the plurality of inlets for recirculation and pressurization of thecirculating water flow.
 35. The exercise pool with a circulating waterflow according to claim 29 wherein the top side of the self-containeddrop-in propulsion unit is removable.
 36. The exercise pool with acirculating water flow according to claim 29 wherein the top side of theself-contained drop-in propulsion unit is configured as a walkway. 37.The exercise pool with a circulating water flow according to claim 29wherein the walls are built from a plurality of modular pieces.
 38. Theexercise pool with a circulating water flow according to claim 29wherein an equalization wall is positioned in the plenum arrangement,the equalization wall positioned between the plurality of water inletsand the pair of propellers, the equalization wall configured to balancethe quantity of the circulating water flow to and between the pair ofpropellers.
 39. The exercise pool with a circulating water flowaccording to claim 38 wherein the equalization wall is positioned belowthe pair of propellers positioned in the interior of the self-containeddrop-in propulsion unit and extends from the front side to the back sideof the plenum arrangement.
 40. The exercise pool with a circulatingwater flow according to claim 29 wherein the common outlet is configuredas a grate.
 41. The exercise pool with a circulating water flowaccording to claim 29 wherein the plurality of water inlets isconfigured as grating.
 42. The exercise pool with a circulating waterflow according to claim 29 wherein the circulating water flow forms apair of circuitous water flow paths in the exercise pool, a first waterflow path flowing from the head end to the foot end of the exercise pooland generally in the center of the pool, the first water flow pathuseful for swimming, and a second water flow path flowing from the footend to the head end of the exercise pool and generally along the secondand the third sides of the pool for recirculation by the pair ofpropellers via the plurality of water inlets.
 43. The exercise pool witha circulating water flow according to claim 29 wherein each propeller ofthe pair of powered propellers is powered by a hydraulic motor which iscoupled to a self-contained hydraulic system positioned exterior of theself-contained drop-in propulsion unit to drive the pair of propellers.44. The exercise pool with a circulating water flow according to claim29 wherein the inner water containment area has an absence of a separatereturn flow structure to aid in delivery of the circulating water flowto the pair of powered propellers via the plurality of inlets in theplenum arrangement of the self-contained drop-in propulsion unit. 45.The exercise pool with a circulating water flow according to claim 29wherein the exercise pool floor positioned below and connected to thebottom of the first wall, the second wall, the third wall and the fourthwall, wherein the exercise pool floor is generally non-sloped andfurther comprises: a) a first layer of self-leveling concrete applied toan existing level floor and is of an equivalent area as the areaoccupied by an exterior perimeter formed by the first wall, the secondwall, the third wall and the fourth wall; b) a second layer positionedupon the first layer of self-leveling concrete, the second layercomposed of an outer area of pvc and an inner area of rigid foam board,the outer area of pvc having an outer perimeter and surrounding theinner area of rigid foam board, wherein the bottom side of the firstwall, the second wall, the third wall and the fourth wall rest directlyupon the outer perimeter of rigid pvc; c) a third layer composed ofvinyl positioned upon the second layer, the third layer sized to coverthe second layer enclosed by the interior of the first wall, the secondwall, the third wall and the fourth wall; d) wherein the position of thesecond layer and the third layer are fixed in relation to the firstwall, the second wall, the third wall and the fourth wall via acompression strip attached via a plurality of fasteners affixed into andthrough the compression strip, the third layer, the second layer and thefirst layer, the compression strip positioned around an interiorperimeter formed by the first wall, the second wall, the third wall andthe fourth wall.
 46. A pool having a floor comprising: a) a first layerof self-leveling concrete applied to an existing level floor and is ofan equivalent area as the area occupied by an exterior perimeter formedby the first wall, the second wall, the third wall and the fourth wall;b) a second layer positioned upon the first layer of self-levelingconcrete, the second layer composed of an outer area of pvc and an innerarea of rigid foam board, the outer area of pvc having an outerperimeter and surrounding the inner area of rigid foam board, whereinthe bottom side of the first wall, the second wall, the third wall andthe fourth wall rest directly upon the outer perimeter of rigid pvc; c)a third layer composed of vinyl positioned upon the second layer, thethird layer sized to cover the second layer enclosed by the interior ofthe first wall, the second wall, the third wall and the fourth wall;and, d) wherein the position of the second layer and the third layer arefixed in relation to the first wall, the second wall, the third wall andthe fourth wall via a compression strip attached via a plurality offasteners affixed into and through the compression strip, the thirdlayer, the second layer and the first layer, the compression strippositioned around an interior perimeter formed by the first wall, thesecond wall, the third wall and the fourth wall.